This Capitol Hill strip on 11th Avenue, sandwiched between East Pine Street and East Pike Street, used to be known more for its thrift stores than nightlife.

Value Village still anchors this strip, but other secondhand stores have been replaced with art galleries and wine bars. A popular hangout for artists, actors, Seattle University students and condo dwellers.

1. Velo Bike Shop, 1535 11th Ave. I know those Ortlieb messenger bags cost almost as much as used bikes, but damn if they don’t look good.

2. Value Village, 1525 11th Ave. A popular place for gay men to forage for hip clothes. Even Hugo Boss and Giorgio Armani shirts have popped up on the racks. But you will have to fight for it. Calling it out doesn’t count.

Give these guys credit. Opened eight years ago, when lots of doubters thought it was crazy to open a bar along a strip that looked more like a dark alley.

7. Vermillion Gallery, 1508 11th Ave. One of the city’s best-kept secrets. It’s a pop art gallery out front. Only when you venture in do you notice the hidden wine bar in back with big screen for movie night, featuring independent films. Affordable wines.

8. Annex Theatre, 1100 E. Pike St. Features late-night live performances. Even better, you’re a few steps away from a gin martini before or after the show — who are we kidding? We meant before and after the show.

Tan Vinh: 206-515-5656 or tvinh@seattletimes.com; on Twitter: @tanvinhseattle. Tan Vinh is a features writer for the Seattle Times. He hikes and drinks for a living, though he never does both at the same time. At least not while on the clock.